advanced reading copy of ADOPTING GRACE
76 of 186

tasks, I was critical and frustrated that he didn’t do it “my way.” I needed to release control and accept that there is more than one way to load a dishwasher... On reflection, I wish that a more integrated partnership had been a conscious and discussed desire during the early days of a now thirty-three year marriage. The reality is that it took us over thirty years to navigate and negotiate a more intentional side-by-side relationship. I wasn’t even particularly aware of my own desires in this area. The reasons for this are many, yet I am grateful for the ongoing journey to a place of more satisfying partnership. In April of 2015, we celebrated a milestone event for Mark and his career. He stepped aside from the role of chairman of his company and began a several years long ramping down of the time that he spends at work. Though he is not yet retiring, his focus is in transition. This was a much planned for adjustment from both the home and work sides of the equation. Our family is already enjoying the many benefits of this decision. When we dated and dreamed of our married days, it was always my wish to stay at home with children. I have kind of made a career of it! Some mothers have this same desire and choose to do so. Others love to work and choose that path. Necessity and the stream of bills sometimes leave parents with little choice but to have two parents at work. Personally, I have great respect and admiration for each path taken and the highest regard for parents going it alone without a partner. ADOPTING GRACE ADVANCED READING COPY 76